KINGSTON, R.I. — June 29, 2000 — The Rhode Island chapter of the Surfrider Foundation has donated $3,000 to the University of Rhode Island Foundation to fund six scholarships for students studying environmental issues. The $500 scholarships are earmarked for four undergraduate students and two graduate students whose academic interests are allied with the primary mission of the Surfrider Foundation – water quality protection and improvement, and public access to coastal waterways. “We chose to make our contribution to URI because of its phenomenal oceanographic and environmental programs,” said Kira Stillwell, membership coordinator for the Rhode Island chapter, “and because so many of our members have ties to the University.” The donation was made in memory of Robert Lloyd, a lifelong Narragansett resident who was instrumental to introducing the sport of surfing to Rhode Island in the 1930s and 40s. Lloyd died in May. “It’s visionary folks like Robert Lloyd that continue to make that extra special difference in our current world, in conjunction with the Surfrider Foundation, that will provide the natural resources for our future generations. A wonderful combination!” said Bob Coleman, executive director of the URI Foundation. “We are confident these scholarship students will continue this wonderful environmental tradition.” The Surfrider Foundation is a non-profit environmental organization dedicated to the protection and enjoyment of the world’s oceans, waves and beaches for all people, through conservation, activism, research and education. The Rhode Island chapter was established in 1998 and has more than 80 members. # # # For Information: Todd McLeish 874-7892